This is how autopilot remote control works today! The RCU-1 is the first Raymarine remote control with a colour display and modern NMEA 2000 connection - specially developed for the Evolution autopilot series. Raymarine already had autopilot remote controls with a subsidiary display function in its programme, such as the SmartController for older SeaTalk systems. However, the RCU-1 goes much further: colour display instead of monochrome, 30-metre range instead of ten metres, 30-day battery life instead of two weeks - and with point-to-steer, an intuitive function that revolutionises course setting.
Set course by pointing: Point-to-steer
The RCU-1 autopilot remote control offers "point-to-steer navigation". The user points the remote control in the desired direction and the autopilot takes over this course. This makes course corrections easier than ever before: instead of entering degree numbers, you simply point to where you want to go. This is particularly practical when avoiding other ships or approaching landmarks.
The controls are designed for one-handed use - an important aspect when the other hand is needed for lines, holding on or other manoeuvres.
Full subsidiary display with colour display
The RCU-1 is the first Raymarine autopilot remote control with a colour display. The display functions as a fully-fledged daughter display and shows course, speed, water depth and waypoint data from NMEA 2000 and SeaTalkng networks. The skipper can therefore call up important navigation data even without looking at the instruments - when mooring at the bow, fishing at the stern or manoeuvring on deck.
This combination of autopilot control and data display was already available on the older SmartController, but only with a monochrome display and for outdated SeaTalk systems. The RCU-1 brings this function into the modern NMEA 2000 world with a significantly better display.
Wireless connection via gateway
The autopilot remote control communicates via Bluetooth with the WG-1 Wireless Gateway, which is connected to the boat's SeaTalkng network. The range is 30 metres - three times the range of previous Raymarine remote controls. The starter kit contains one RCU-1 autopilot remote control and one WG-1 wireless gateway. A total of three remote controls can be paired with the gateway - interesting for crews where several people are to control the autopilot or for boats with several steering positions.
Long runtime thanks to AA batteries
The RCU-1 is powered by two standard AA batteries. Raymarine claims a battery life of 30 days - significantly longer than the two to three weeks of previous models. Intelligent power-saving modes are designed to maximise the runtime. Compared to permanently installed solutions with rechargeable batteries, the advantage is that AA batteries can be replaced at any time while underway, without the need to charge them on board.
Availability and price
The RCU-1 starter kit (one autopilot remote control + one WG-1 wireless gateway) costs around 650 euros. Additional RCU-1 remote controls can be purchased separately and cost around 360 euros. The autopilot remote control will be available from mid-June 2026 through Raymarine dealers and distributors. Further information: www.raymarine.com
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
